Preview — The Other Half of Me
by Morgan McCarthy

The Other Half of Me

“What good can the past do the living? What harm?” Growing up in their family’s ancestral home in Wales, Jonathan Anthony and his little sister, Theo, are inseparable. Together they explore the wild acres of Evendon, inventing magical worlds and buttressing each other against the loneliness of life with their alcoholic mother, Alicia, and a shifting cast of gossiping cooks“What good can the past do the living? What harm?” Growing up in their family’s ancestral home in Wales, Jonathan Anthony and his little sister, Theo, are inseparable. Together they explore the wild acres of Evendon, inventing magical worlds and buttressing each other against the loneliness of life with their alcoholic mother, Alicia, and a shifting cast of gossiping cooks and maids. When a family tragedy brings their glamorous grandmother, Eve, home from America, Jonathan and Theo are initially elated by the attention she lavishes on them. But soon it becomes clear that there is more to the Anthony family history than either Eve or Alicia will acknowledge, trapping Jonathan and Theo in a web of dark secrets that have haunted Evendon for generations.

Written in luminous prose, with richly endearing characters and a profound appreciation for the rustic beauty of the Welsh countryside, The Other Half of Me is a darkly wise coming-of-age novel and a masterful portrait of a family and the burdens of the past....more

Community Reviews

As I read The Other Half of Me, Morgan McCarthy’s first novel, I heard echoes of many other stories. Stories of lives lived in grand country houses. Stories of troubled families harbouring dark secrets. Stories of privileged, but troubled, lives … and yet, through all of that, I heard a new and distinctive story.

Jonathan and his younger sister, Theo, grew up in a mansion in the Welsh countryside. They were terribly isolated. Their father was absent. Their mother, Alicia, was remote. And their neAs I read The Other Half of Me, Morgan McCarthy’s first novel, I heard echoes of many other stories. Stories of lives lived in grand country houses. Stories of troubled families harbouring dark secrets. Stories of privileged, but troubled, lives … and yet, through all of that, I heard a new and distinctive story.

Jonathan and his younger sister, Theo, grew up in a mansion in the Welsh countryside. They were terribly isolated. Their father was absent. Their mother, Alicia, was remote. And their neighbours held them at arm’s length. Only the staff – the housekeeper, the cook, the gardener – had any time for the children.

And so they clung to each other, and they ran wild.

Until their grandmother, socialite and hotel magnate, Eve Anthony, heard that something was amiss and came home to take charge of the situation. She was capable and she reassured her grandchildren, telling them stories that explained much about the past and their family situation.

Jonathan and Theo grew in different directions: he was practical and ambitious while she was needy and heedless of the consequences of her actions. The bond between them was strained.

Both began to question the gaps in Eve’s stories, and to wonder if those stories were true at all. And if Eve wasn’t telling the truth who was she trying to protect. Her grandchildren, her daughter, or herself?

Tragedy was inevitable. And the grief it caused might be too much to bear.

Morgan McCarthy tells her story beautifully. Her style is languid and lovely, her turn of phrase is charming, and she has a very nice way with a metaphor.

There is light and shade, and a lovely mixture of the mysterious and the elegiac.

She made a wise choice in appointing Jonathan as her narrator. He alone had the self-awareness and the momentum for the job, and I never doubted that I was seeing, hearing, understanding as he had. That meant a few details were missing, a few characters were less defined than they might have been, but that was the right choice, to hold the perspective.

The story moves slowly and there are long stretches when nothing happens, but the beauty of the writing, the wonderful evocation of the world that Jonathan moved through, the questions hanging in the air, all of that held me.

I worked out some of the answers, but not all of them.

The complex and changing relationship between brother and sister gave the story its heart and the ever-present sense of menace and foreboding gave it substance.

There were times when I felt that Morgan McCarthy was over-playing her hand. That the family was a little too wealthy, the Eve had done a little too much in a single lifetime, that Theo couldn’t really be so desperately short of self-knowledge …. but the story still worked, because all of the emotions and the psychology rang true.

Now that I have reached the end I realise that the story was moving, haunting, and quite beautifully written.

That’s a wonderful achievement for a first novel, and I am intrigued to read whatever else Morgan McCarthy may write in the future....more

I loved the sound of this book, but by the end of it I found myself rather disappointed and slightly bored.

The book had a good start, and I really did feel that the author was setting the scene for a really emotive journey. However as the book went on, and years and years were passing I started to wonder exactly where the plot was heading and why it was taking so long to get there.

I ended the book feeling very frustrated, as there did not seem to be any definite plot to the book and I did not seI loved the sound of this book, but by the end of it I found myself rather disappointed and slightly bored.

The book had a good start, and I really did feel that the author was setting the scene for a really emotive journey. However as the book went on, and years and years were passing I started to wonder exactly where the plot was heading and why it was taking so long to get there.

I ended the book feeling very frustrated, as there did not seem to be any definite plot to the book and I did not see the point of it at all. The book did detail a whole childhood, adolescence and early adulthood... but then just ended.

I felt that the book was a continuous back story, almost half a book really. There was much detail and scene setting, but no real direction or objective for the book.

It left me feeling unfulfilled and disappointed. A shame really as the author obviously has talent which was shown with some very beautiful descriptions and similes throughout the book....more

I liked it but... the writing was wonderful but I found myself losing interest in the middle and the ending was like tepid, weak tea. I didn't dislike it, in fact I enjoyed the characters but it started to feel like I was swimming in the ocean with jeans on. That sounds mad, I know. I would like to read more by McCarthy because I think she writes exceptionally well. Sometimes there are stories that light us on fire, others promise to burn with a spark and then slowly seem to smother themselves oI liked it but... the writing was wonderful but I found myself losing interest in the middle and the ending was like tepid, weak tea. I didn't dislike it, in fact I enjoyed the characters but it started to feel like I was swimming in the ocean with jeans on. That sounds mad, I know. I would like to read more by McCarthy because I think she writes exceptionally well. Sometimes there are stories that light us on fire, others promise to burn with a spark and then slowly seem to smother themselves out. Or maybe it's just me and I wanted something that took me somewhere unexpected. Again, great writer, would certainly read more by her but this won't be a favorite. ...more

I have recently reviewed this novel for a major UK bookseller.Reading this novel, you would never realise that it was written by a debut author as it is so accomplished- you would think McCarthy had been writting novels for years.'The Other Half Of Me' follows Jonathan as he journeys through his life in an affluent well-known family. His sister, Theo, journeys with him as they interact with those who enter their lives - their unloving mother Alicia, their hugely successful Grandmother Eve, and cI have recently reviewed this novel for a major UK bookseller.Reading this novel, you would never realise that it was written by a debut author as it is so accomplished- you would think McCarthy had been writting novels for years.'The Other Half Of Me' follows Jonathan as he journeys through his life in an affluent well-known family. His sister, Theo, journeys with him as they interact with those who enter their lives - their unloving mother Alicia, their hugely successful Grandmother Eve, and childhood friends Nick and Maria.This novel is a journey of discovery as the characters learn the ways of the world - who to trust, who to love and where to place their suspicions - but is a journey full of loss and sorrow. This journey leads them into the world of family history which uncover some family secrets and has some tragic consequences.In this novel, McCarthy creates some beautiful characters who draw you into their world. Theo in particular is really sweet and endearing, but has her moments when you just despair. The novel is told from Jonathans perspective and he is another charcter who I became really attached to and really wanted something positive to happen to him. Quite rightly, I never really warmed to either Alicia or Eve and McCarthy created a great contrast between these two and the other characters she has created.Overall this was a really lovely novel which had me hooked from the outset and gave me a feeling of sadness throughout, something not many novels achieve and which acts as a sign of how brilliant this novel is. I look forward to reading McCarthys next novel so see if she can continue the excellence that she has started....more

So, I've been neglecting writing reviews for a long time now. In my defense, I don't have a computer in the apartment I'm staying at while attending uni and the only time I have for writing reviews is when I'm home, because I don't like writing them on my phone. But I wasn't writing even when I was home... No excuse for me.

Anyway, I don't remember much about this book. I recall it was about two siblings who were raised by servants at their home because their mother was emotionally unstable. TherSo, I've been neglecting writing reviews for a long time now. In my defense, I don't have a computer in the apartment I'm staying at while attending uni and the only time I have for writing reviews is when I'm home, because I don't like writing them on my phone. But I wasn't writing even when I was home... No excuse for me.

Anyway, I don't remember much about this book. I recall it was about two siblings who were raised by servants at their home because their mother was emotionally unstable. There were a lot of daddy issues, drug and alchohol abuse and some really bad decisions. It was an okay read, but nothing more.

I don't like men who spend their whole life pinning for one woman. It may be hypocritical of me because I like when men in real life show their feelings once in a while, but it seems I don't like that in fictional terms. I just see it as pathetic waste of time. Especially when I think that woman is not worth their love interest or time. The male lead was not any better, but I still think those two didn't deserve each other.

The sister was another problem. She was much like her mother in emotional stability part. She acted like a child most of the time and I think her upbringing was to be blamed for that. They protected her all the time and daddy issues were there for most part of the book. I don't remember clearly what exactly happened to their father, but I think the reason for his disappearance was good enough.

I didn't exactly see the point of this book, but maybe it was just me. But it was entertaining enough, so that counts for something, right?...more

So I chose this book at the airport, thinking that he blurb sounded promising (and I was taken in by the cover - I am a sucker for a pretty cover!) It was an interesting read, but not something I'd read a second time. The story was fairly engaging, but I was turned off a bit by the elitism shown by the main character and his university friends - not sure if this was intentional or not, but it didn't contribute towards making him very likeable.

My main criticism is that the writing - whilst makinSo I chose this book at the airport, thinking that he blurb sounded promising (and I was taken in by the cover - I am a sucker for a pretty cover!) It was an interesting read, but not something I'd read a second time. The story was fairly engaging, but I was turned off a bit by the elitism shown by the main character and his university friends - not sure if this was intentional or not, but it didn't contribute towards making him very likeable.

My main criticism is that the writing - whilst making good use of imagery - felt very self conscious, and thus it was impossible to be completely gripped by the story....more

3.5 stars. As advertised, this does have some of the feel of Atonement. It would also work well for fans of Kate Morton. The writing was very good, and I would have rated it higher if the denouement hadn't dragged on so long.

There are times when I crave something different from what I normally read - and that's where novels like this one come in. While it did take longer to find myself invested in finishing this one, it was just the kind of book I wanted at the time. This story is drawn out and told with carefully chosen turns of phrase, telling the story of this family and their history with well-crafted prosFirst Thoughts: Family dynamics are always interesting fodder for a story...

There are times when I crave something different from what I normally read - and that's where novels like this one come in. While it did take longer to find myself invested in finishing this one, it was just the kind of book I wanted at the time. This story is drawn out and told with carefully chosen turns of phrase, telling the story of this family and their history with well-crafted prose.

It's fairly easy to call to mind the main players in this tale - Jonathan, Theo, Eve and Alicia, who are all members of the infamous Anthony family. This is a testament to the author's ability to create characters that are distinctive and memorable. They were carved into being, with personality quirks that set them apart from one another: Jonathan was the older brother who strove to achieve the right things, Eve was the grandmother who inspired him with her own success, Theo was the younger sister who had a interesting view of the world and Alicia was the alcoholic mother who often spent her days napping in bed or drinking to ward off her own sorrows.

The story studies the relationships between these main characters, starting from when Jonathan and Theo were mere children up until they are adults. While Alicia's neglect of her children certainly played a role in their personality development, it was really Jonathan and Theo's relationship with Eve and with each other that this book so beautifully tells us about. Like real relationships, there are good parts and bad parts and all the parts in between. Toss in a bit of fame and a ton of scandal, and you have fodder for an interesting story.

The most fascinating thing about the book, however, is the tone that the author employs in telling this story. It was equal parts pensive and thoughtful, which lent to the novel's slow movement from the beginning to end. There was an overall feeling of melancholy, and I finished the book feeling thoughtful and sad for this family and their story. This was a marked change from my usual quick-paced, snappy reads, and I was able to embrace it wholeheartedly as I dove into this book.

With its quiet, drawn out story, The Other Half of Me drew me into the world of the Anthonys and their lives. It was interesting, and slightly voyeuristic, to be given such an intimate view of Jonathan's thoughts and his experiences with his family. While I certainly don't expect everyone to enjoy it, fans of thoughtful, lovely prose and exploring familial ties will find this book as fascinating as I did....more

It’s been a long time since I finished a book in 3 days, certainly not a book as literary as this, with the thinnest of plots, but I found The Other Half of Me absolutely enthralling: at times, almost impossible to put down. Not a great deal happens in The Other Half of Me, the plot is slight, but beautifully detailed and wonderfully told. Brother and sister, Jonathan and Theo, grow up at Evendon, a lovely house by the sea, where money is abundant but love is absent. Their father is missing andIt’s been a long time since I finished a book in 3 days, certainly not a book as literary as this, with the thinnest of plots, but I found The Other Half of Me absolutely enthralling: at times, almost impossible to put down. Not a great deal happens in The Other Half of Me, the plot is slight, but beautifully detailed and wonderfully told. Brother and sister, Jonathan and Theo, grow up at Evendon, a lovely house by the sea, where money is abundant but love is absent. Their father is missing and presumed dead. Their mother is just a vague presence who floats through life with a drink in her hand. The locals and the household staff despise them. They have no friends, only each other. Everything changes when their mother is hospitalised and their grandmother Eve arrives to take over the care of the house and the children. Eve Anthony is famous, glamorous, extremely rich. As the children grown up, the passage of their lives is made easy and smooth by their grandmother’s money and seemingly endless list of influential contacts. Jon and Theo's future should be rosy, but of course, it isn’t. Too many secrets, too many lies: it soon gradually becomes clear to Jonathan why his mother and her brother hate Eve. Theo, unable to hate, is slowly tipped into madness. From the start, you sense that she is doomed.Eve admires Jonathan as a chip off her block, but is constantly exasperated by Theo - as was I. I’m sure we were meant to adore her as Jonathan does; to be charmed by her kind naïveté and helpless absent-mindedness, but I’ve known too many Theos and I couldn’t love her; she is silly and childish and extremely annoying. I frequently wanted to slap her. Poor Jonathan constantly angsts – has he been unkind to Theo by asking her to grow up and take responsibility for her own life? I doubt if I could have been half so patient as Jonathan - or even Eve. Theo strikes me as someone who should be institutionalised for her own good and everyone else’s sanity. My irritation with Theo didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book – far from it, she was the spice of it, Jonathan and Eve alone would have been too solid a dish for my taste. And, as I seem to keep saying, not a great deal happens in TOH, but the tragic progress is deliciously compelling and the writing is gorgeous - poetic, but lightly done: only just short of perfect. I couldn’t put the book down but dreaded its end. It’s been a long, long time I was so absolutely absorbed in the world of a book as I was with Jonathan and Theo, Eve and Evendon. ...more

Rural Wales is the setting for this beautifully written book - it is where Jonathan and Theo (Theodora), the two small Anthony children live with their mother, the beautiful widowed Alicia and an assortment of household staff. Alicia spends most of her time suffering from alcohol induced "headaches" and either shuts herself up in her room, or floats about the house in a daze. She makes it quite clear that she has no desire for the company of her own children......they are simply a nuisance to heRural Wales is the setting for this beautifully written book - it is where Jonathan and Theo (Theodora), the two small Anthony children live with their mother, the beautiful widowed Alicia and an assortment of household staff. Alicia spends most of her time suffering from alcohol induced "headaches" and either shuts herself up in her room, or floats about the house in a daze. She makes it quite clear that she has no desire for the company of her own children......they are simply a nuisance to her. So eight year old Jonathan and seven year old Theo are left to their own devices, wandering the huge country house with its sprawling gardens full of wild places; Jonathan is very protective of Theo who seems to need more attention than most little girls. She's a needy, dreamy child, full of wonder, enthusiasm and empathy for everything around her.

One day Alicia (the children only ever call her by her name, never Mum or Mummy) is taken away in an ambulance and the children are left alone in the care of Miss Black, the nanny whom they despise, and Mrs Edwards, the colourful, but not particulalry efficient, cook. They are not told what has happened to their mother, or what will become of them, but eventually Eve, their wealthy grandmother, arrives from America and it becomes clear she is there to stay; Jonathan's and Theo's lives will never be the same. Alicia returns from her drying out spell but it is Eve who transforms the house into its former glory and insists on a more formal education for the children.

As Jonathan and Theo grow older, Eve's story about their missing father begins to sound more doubtful; as it begins to unravel tensions develop within their small circle.

The book moves effortlessly from one timeline to another, the writing, crisp and clear, evoking the atmosphere of the period, whether it be the 1988 or 2008. It is so beautifully descriptive but never over done, the characters so well drawn and believable, and the narrative flows so well....I had my nose stuck in this book for two days as I devoured every word. I honestly cannot fault this book.

This author knows how to write; I hope there is more from her in the future.

The debut of The Other Half of Me captivated me with it's beautiful prose and dark secrets. Jonathan and Theo are youngsters who live with there mother and nanny. Their mother's best friend is a bottle of gin and she can't be bothered with the children. The nanny who takes care of them really doesn't want to be bothered either. But Jonathan and Theo have one another.

When their mother collapses, their grandmother Eve retrieves them and raises them. Although the children have been told their fatheThe debut of The Other Half of Me captivated me with it's beautiful prose and dark secrets. Jonathan and Theo are youngsters who live with there mother and nanny. Their mother's best friend is a bottle of gin and she can't be bothered with the children. The nanny who takes care of them really doesn't want to be bothered either. But Jonathan and Theo have one another.

When their mother collapses, their grandmother Eve retrieves them and raises them. Although the children have been told their father died, and that is why he wasn't around, little Theo doesn't believe it. In fact, that belief sticks into her mind until it's almost a reality as she matures. Jonathan, who has always kept a close eye on his younger sister, worries about her.

The Other Half of Me reminded me of an old Gothic tale. Set in beautiful Wales, the writing is exquisite. The scenes are dramatically drawn without weighing down the reader with a bunch of elaborate details. I think I enjoyed the characters of Jonathan and Theo when they were children much more than I did as they got older. However, I was driven to keep turning the pages. I wanted to know the family secrets and how life would turn out for Theo and Jonathan. The story is told from Jonathan's perspective and I thoroughly enjoyed his take on everything. If you're seeking a new author to try, pick up The Other Half of Me - it's a haunting and suspenseful novel that will intrigue you....more

This is a terrific novel, atmospheric, claustrophobic and so beautifully poignant. Morgan McCarthy has chosen to narrate the novel with a male voice which she pulls off with a delicate finesse.

Jonathan’s journey to adulthood is surrounded by women. His distant, alcoholic mother Alicia, his imposing grandmother, the internationally loved businesswoman and politician Eve Anthony, and a whole host of lithe, beautiful young things who leave his bed warm but his heart cold. However, most important ofThis is a terrific novel, atmospheric, claustrophobic and so beautifully poignant. Morgan McCarthy has chosen to narrate the novel with a male voice which she pulls off with a delicate finesse.

Jonathan’s journey to adulthood is surrounded by women. His distant, alcoholic mother Alicia, his imposing grandmother, the internationally loved businesswoman and politician Eve Anthony, and a whole host of lithe, beautiful young things who leave his bed warm but his heart cold. However, most important of all is his younger sister Theo. Fragile and incredibly caring, Theo relies on Jonathan as the one source of constant love and protection.

But Theo begins to see cracks in their family history. To her, the formidable Welsh manor, which was their adventure ground as children, seems to be filled with ghosts and dark secrets and she is determined to discover the truth. While Jonathan is determined to emulate his grandmother’s success and persona, Theo seems to be falling apart and Jonathan is losing his patience.

McCarthy explores love with a tender force through Jonathon, who struggles to grasp the freedom and happiness it can provide once you stop being so afraid. A rich, colourful and bittersweet tale of loyalty, love and friendship.

I feel like I've read almost this exact story several times before. Poor little rich kids, preferably British, raising themselves the best way they can without help from their dead/missing/indifferent parents. And I enjoy reading about that, and I enjoyed reading this book. But what blew me away about this book was the opening paragraph: "It doesn't take long to divide an old life from a new life - a few minutes, not even that. One quick, unfair blow, and you find yourself looking back across thI feel like I've read almost this exact story several times before. Poor little rich kids, preferably British, raising themselves the best way they can without help from their dead/missing/indifferent parents. And I enjoy reading about that, and I enjoyed reading this book. But what blew me away about this book was the opening paragraph: "It doesn't take long to divide an old life from a new life - a few minutes, not even that. One quick, unfair blow, and you find yourself looking back across the uncrossable, to a place that can't ever be reached again, despite the fact you were there - brushing your teeth or reading a paper or wondering where you left your umbrella - just a moment ago. But that's over, the kind, old life, and you have to go out into the unknown, unbalanced world, where everything important is wrong. People vanish, the scenery changes. Things you loved become meaningless, and meaningless things stay that way." That's my life, encapsulated into one paragraph. Amazing....more

The publisher is promoting this book set in Wales and England as "Atonement-esque" (Ian McEwan) and I have to agree, although I liked this much better. The plot is intriguing and it has a well-drawn cast of interesting--if somewhat unlikeable—characters. In addition the writing is lush and gorgeous, and those of you who know me are aware I tend to read more for plot and characterization than language, but I was surprised to find myself re-reading passages because they were so beautifull4.5 stars

The publisher is promoting this book set in Wales and England as "Atonement-esque" (Ian McEwan) and I have to agree, although I liked this much better. The plot is intriguing and it has a well-drawn cast of interesting--if somewhat unlikeable—characters. In addition the writing is lush and gorgeous, and those of you who know me are aware I tend to read more for plot and characterization than language, but I was surprised to find myself re-reading passages because they were so beautifully phrased. The lack of 1/2 star is because I was anticipating the denouement would be a bigger surprise but that's a minor quibble and I was happy with the ending.

I recommend this to anyone who loves gorgeous writing and a compelling plot with a gothic tinge. Book groups will find much to discuss in this multi-layered story.

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for proving the print galley. Also available as an e-galley on Edelweiss....more

This book begins beautifully! The beginning prose is a delight to read.

"It doesn't take long to divide an old life from a new life -- a few minutes, not even that. One quick, unfair blow, and you find yourself looking back across the uncrossable, to a place that can't ever reached again despite the fact that you were there -- brushing your teeth or reading a paper or wondering where you left your umbrella -- just a moment ago." Whew! I was hooked after the first paragraph.

But then, this novel, wThis book begins beautifully! The beginning prose is a delight to read.

"It doesn't take long to divide an old life from a new life -- a few minutes, not even that. One quick, unfair blow, and you find yourself looking back across the uncrossable, to a place that can't ever reached again despite the fact that you were there -- brushing your teeth or reading a paper or wondering where you left your umbrella -- just a moment ago." Whew! I was hooked after the first paragraph.

But then, this novel, which is described as "a secret that drives a wedge into Jonathan's once immutable bond with his sister", "tragedy strikes again", takes over 175 pages to get to any information about any tragic secret. 175 pages that, despite often containing more examples of this beautiful prose, are a slow read.

Morgan McCarthy shows glimpses of talent and the promise of being a good writer, unfortunately the whole wasn't as good as these parts. The characters lacked depth and, though starting well once the prologue had passed, the plot was wispy thin.

Having said that, this is only a first novel in what I'm sure will be a successful career for Ms McCarthy. I'm looking forward to watching her develop as time and books go on.

“The Other Half of Me” is the debut novel of Morgan McCarthy. Too often debut novels are hyped beyond their worth; then the lured reader finds serious flaws and regrets having wasted time with the book. THIS IS NOT THE CASE with Other Half. McCarthy’s writing is lyrical, packed with more imaginative and apt tropes per page than most modern poems. Other Half is a masterfully told story of a dysfunctional family, of evil and innocence, lies and truth. Usually I shrink from novels about dysfunction“The Other Half of Me” is the debut novel of Morgan McCarthy. Too often debut novels are hyped beyond their worth; then the lured reader finds serious flaws and regrets having wasted time with the book. THIS IS NOT THE CASE with Other Half. McCarthy’s writing is lyrical, packed with more imaginative and apt tropes per page than most modern poems. Other Half is a masterfully told story of a dysfunctional family, of evil and innocence, lies and truth. Usually I shrink from novels about dysfunction, but the character of the imaginative and loving little girl Theodora drew me in. I needed to know what would become of this innocent who was unloved by her alcoholic mother, ambitious, controlling grandmother, and indifferent housekeepers, and to her beloved older brother Jonathan, who was likewise emotionally deprived, but gifted with more ability to cope with life.

(WARNING: What follows is best read AFTER you have finished the novel.) The book comes with a reading group guide. I read through that and wanted to offer other readers more to think about. The author’s characters are not religious, although they are married and buried in church. But the names of the main characters are rich with theological or biblical meaning:Theodora means ‘God’s gift.’ This loving child lived up to her name and was mourned by all as a too rare gift after her passing.Her brother Jonathan’s name means ‘God has given.’ He was given this wonderful fragile sister, and how he cared for or failed to care for her affected the course of his life and his emotional health in the deepest way. For the biblically literate, the name Jonathan brings to mind the exemplary loyalty of David’s best friend, who did not desert David in times of danger.The wicked grandmother Eve, who for her cold beauty is compared to Snow White, is named somewhat ironically: Eve means ‘mother of all living,’ but this plotting, striving, man- and child-hating woman wreaked death on family members and crippled the survivors. As Eve in Genesis was both tempted and tempter, so Eve in Other Half sins, tempts others, then finally dies in bitter regret.Maria, the love interest of Jonathan, is the antithesis of Eve in this story, just as Mary, Mother of Jesus, undoes the sin of Eve by bearing Christ, the Savior of the world. Maria loves the sea; the name Mary means ‘drop of the sea.’ The seaside setting of the family home is a powerful component of this story in which humans and nature interact. For Christians, water imagery brings to mind the regenerative work of baptism. In this novel, Maria’s love for the devastated Jonathan brings him healing and new life.

I highly recommend this book to readers who crave a domestic story set in an English Stately Home that is inhabited with flesh-and-blood rather than cardboard characters (you must want to venture beyond Downton Abbey rather than revisit it).

Morgan McCarthy’s debut, The Other Half of Me, follows two siblings over the span of twenty years as their lives morph from childhood innocence to adulthood in a nurture-less environment. Written in hauntingly beautiful prose, McCarthy has created a unique, albeit slow-paced, novelArticle first published as Book Review: The Other Half of Me by Morgan McCarthy on Blogcritics.

Morgan McCarthy’s debut, The Other Half of Me, follows two siblings over the span of twenty years as their lives morph from childhood innocence to adulthood in a nurture-less environment. Written in hauntingly beautiful prose, McCarthy has created a unique, albeit slow-paced, novel.

Jonathan Anthony, the narrator, is at times unreliable. When he recalls his childhood years, he occasionally uses words much too advanced for a young boy, making him unbelievable. Understandably, Jonathan was an intellectually advanced and solitary boy. But excusing Jonathan’s unreliable nature, he does paint a lovely picture for the reader. The metaphors are exquisite in their uniqueness, and the descriptions are flawless. Every minute detail is observed, however, making the plot feel tedious. The reader should consider: Given the trouble Jonathan experiences with memory after tragedy strikes his family, how can he possibly remember everything so clearly?

Theo Anthony, Jonathan’s sister, appears to be the protagonist of the story. Her behavior is what moves the plot forward. Though we learn about Jonathan and his rising success in the architectural world, it is Theo’s life that we crave glimpses of. Jonathan, whether McCarthy intended to or not, places Theo on a pedestal throughout the novel as he relates her deteriorating mental state. Theo is seen through Anthony’s subjective eyes, inadvertently placing her on a pedestal for the reader as well.

The character growth is successful because of its subtlety. One of the motivating factors for character growth in McCarthy’s novel is grief. She does not overplay the role of grief in her novel, instead she caresses it and gently directs the reader into understanding the grief that is haunting her characters. The second factor affecting character growth is the love that Jonathan and Theo share. It is the familial love between the two siblings that gives the story depth. McCarthy does not easily give her characters unconditional love. Instead, Jonathan refuses to bestow or receive love, while Theo is too quick to share it.

Morgan McCarthy’s debut’s greatest flaw is the pacing, but her characters and masterful descriptions redeem the story. The Other Half of Me begins unsteadily, but will haunt its readers with its conclusion....more

This book tells the story of Jonathan and Theo Anthony who grew up in a mansion in Wales with no father present, a mother who, it became apparent, suffered from a mental illness and a variety of house staff - the housekeeper, the cook and the gardener. One day the grandmother of Jonathan and Theo, Eve Anthony returns to Wales where she takes control of the family and home and also shares with the grandchildren a number of stories about the past. It would be fair to say that during the early stagThis book tells the story of Jonathan and Theo Anthony who grew up in a mansion in Wales with no father present, a mother who, it became apparent, suffered from a mental illness and a variety of house staff - the housekeeper, the cook and the gardener. One day the grandmother of Jonathan and Theo, Eve Anthony returns to Wales where she takes control of the family and home and also shares with the grandchildren a number of stories about the past. It would be fair to say that during the early stages of the book when it speaks of their early years Jonathan and Theo are quite close and, indeed, seemed to do most things together. But, as we see them grow older throughout the book and as they hear Eve speak more and more of the past, we see a wedge driven between the two of them. They go their own way which leads to some terrible consequences.

I picked up this book due to the blurb as it sounded like my type of book but I must admit that at times it didn't always hold my attention and I did wonder whether I would actually be able to see it through to the end. This wasn't helped by the fact that by the time this book was about halfway through I had already figured out who it was who was going to die and this was mainly due to the way the book jumped backwards and forwards between Jonathan describing the present time in his life (2008) and his past life and the events that had led to him being where he now was. I personally feel that it would have been better to have the book chronological throughout so that we first met Jonathan when he was young and stayed with him right the way through to 2008.

I also found it hard to come to terms with Jonathan and Theo calling their mother, Alicia, and their grandmother, Eve, by their first name as opposed to mother and grandmother. It's just something that I'm not used to and I'm not sure if many people these days ever use their parents or grandparents first name to address them by. Also sticking with the whole name situation there were a lot mentioned within this book and I did sometimes find myself having to flick backwards and forwards between the pages trying to remember exactly who was who.

Despite the rather critical review I did give this book 3-stars as it did have some really good parts to it and I could also tell that a lot of effort had been put into it in terms of researching the various places to which we travelled with the characters of the book. I would definitely consider reading another of this author's books should any be published in the future. ...more

According to the cover of the book, The Other Half of Me by Morgan McCarthy is about a bond - "a bond sealed in childhood, a secret terrible enough to break it". The publisher says the book is "darkly enchanting and exquisitely pitched...[it] is the story about the burden of legacy, the corrosiveness of secrets and the volatile power of love." When you think of it, those words don't actually give much away. Bonds, secrets, I'm intrigued. But I think the greater theme is that of Discovery - of yoAccording to the cover of the book, The Other Half of Me by Morgan McCarthy is about a bond - "a bond sealed in childhood, a secret terrible enough to break it". The publisher says the book is "darkly enchanting and exquisitely pitched...[it] is the story about the burden of legacy, the corrosiveness of secrets and the volatile power of love." When you think of it, those words don't actually give much away. Bonds, secrets, I'm intrigued. But I think the greater theme is that of Discovery - of yourself, your surroundings, of friendship and family, through adolescence to adulthood, and then what loss, grief and truth all look like and what they mean in your world.

The book is about Jonathan and his little sister Theo, their gin-soaked mother Alicia (who doesn't like them very much) and their grandmother, the famous and wealthy Eve Anthony, a formidable woman who takes the children under her wing, providing them with a different upringing and telling them her version of their childhood. But as Jonathan and Theo grow up, their perceptions adjust, their memories change, and the truth is sought. Something just isn't right. Not with the history they've been presented or with Theo herself. What is fact and what is fiction? What lies in their path and what will that do to the bond between them?

If I didn't know this was a debut, I would not have picked it. I particularly enjoyed the elegant writing style and admired the author's ability to choose perfectly formed sentences, just the right adjectives, the phrases, the moods, and use them in a really interesting, mature and beautiful way. I thought her character development was good. I liked the character of Jonathan and I was empathetic towards Theo. I would have welcomed more time spent on her and what made her different from her brother. I wanted to get to know Jonathan more and explore the themes of loss and sorrow and the impact of truth.

What I would have liked more of is plot - more development and a bit more depth to the story. Nevertheless I was able to read this book quickly - it was an easy read that took me into another world, the world of affluence, imposing family estates and family secrets. Overall this was a pleasant reading experience and I'd recommend the book to others....more

Growing up in an ancesteral home in Wales, Jonathan,Anthony, Nick and Theo are inseparable. The three share many common traits together and they have each other back, regardless of how obsene the consequences may be. In particular, Jonathan loves his overly complicated sister Theo. Although he wishes that she learns from her mistakes, the love he has for her is unfathomable. Theo to him is more than a sibling but she is a confident that he tells all his secret desires too. Their mother is distanGrowing up in an ancesteral home in Wales, Jonathan,Anthony, Nick and Theo are inseparable. The three share many common traits together and they have each other back, regardless of how obsene the consequences may be. In particular, Jonathan loves his overly complicated sister Theo. Although he wishes that she learns from her mistakes, the love he has for her is unfathomable. Theo to him is more than a sibling but she is a confident that he tells all his secret desires too. Their mother is distant from them and prefers not to think about the painful past. Abandoned by her, they look up to their grandmother Eve, who is a well renowed career woman. Eve is unlike any other person they know, but Eve knows more about their absent Father, than they may not realize.

Years go by and Jonathan and Theo start to grow apart. Theo lives in another state, pursuing a career as an Art student but misses Jonathan in more ways than She can imagine. Writing him revealing letters about their father, who she think is alive and well. Despite Jonathan dismissal about her outrageous cliams, apart of him believes that she is telling the truth. In addition, Jonathan meets a lovely girl, Maria. Maria is unlike any other girl he has met but he doubts that she feels the same attraction he has for her. While his friends encourages to get over his shyness , he is afriad of facing rejection. As the plot thickens, Nick, Anthony and Jonathan dearest friends take different career paths but still manages to keep in contact.

Theo and Jonathan learn more about their Uncle Alex and his unfamiliar presence. Soon Theo bad decisions turn deadly and Jonathan is at a loss as to what to do. Secrets are revealed, past demons return and families are rocked in this emotionally, gripping, poignant and heartbreaking novel about how love is the ultimate sacrifrice.

Every element of this made a good novel: fully developed characters, consistency and an unbelivable ending. The characters were so real and fresh to my memory, they each will stay with me for a very long time.

Looking forwarding to reading more novels from Mcarthy, an amazing and vivid storyteller!...more

The early chapters suggested that The Other Half of Me was going to be about a big house harbouring dark family secrets, reminiscent somewhat of Du Maurier's Rebecca. This is certainly one of the elements in the book, but it is as much about the close relationship between Jonathan and his sister Theo as it is about their powerful grandmother Eve and the mystery that surrounds her.

I agree with Joanne (http://josbookjourney.wordpress.com/2...) when she praises McCarthy's ability to create the voicThe early chapters suggested that The Other Half of Me was going to be about a big house harbouring dark family secrets, reminiscent somewhat of Du Maurier's Rebecca. This is certainly one of the elements in the book, but it is as much about the close relationship between Jonathan and his sister Theo as it is about their powerful grandmother Eve and the mystery that surrounds her.

I agree with Joanne (http://josbookjourney.wordpress.com/2...) when she praises McCarthy's ability to create the voice of a convincing male narrator. Jonathan's outlook on his life and the lives of those around him is more clearly conveyed than just about anything else in the book, stronger, for example, then any of the places in which the story unfolds, with the exception of Evendon. Joanne said that she "did not like the three main female characters at all", presumably Theo, Eve and Alicia. In real life, I too would probably disapprove of them, along with just about all the other characters. On the page, however, Theo had a certain charm and innocence when not doped up to her eyeballs. I liked the bit when, working in art gallery, she asks how they put a price on art? Told that art is worth whatever someone is prepared to pay for it, she ends up losing her job for selling a piece at a fraction of its market value.

Readers who have a particularly strong aversion to people who can get through life without much effort because they are born into wealth and connections should be warned that this is a novel full of that sort of people. Alicia and Theo might not exactly excel at getting through life, but they get a lot more chances than those of more humble origin. I ended up wandering if it was intentional that The Other Half of Me should also be about how, in the old phrase, 'the other half live'?...more

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
click here.I've rated this book as a 4 star, because although I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and found it enthralling throughout, I still found the ending lacking....as in, I'm still not entirely sure what story I just read. It was so engrossing, getting into the lives of these characters, so all consuming reading of the bond and eventual breakdown of said bond between the two main sibling characters, and yet I'm still not certain that I'm aware of their outcome.The story centers around Jonathon and Theo,I've rated this book as a 4 star, because although I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and found it enthralling throughout, I still found the ending lacking....as in, I'm still not entirely sure what story I just read. It was so engrossing, getting into the lives of these characters, so all consuming reading of the bond and eventual breakdown of said bond between the two main sibling characters, and yet I'm still not certain that I'm aware of their outcome.The story centers around Jonathon and Theo, one strong and resourceful, the other fairy-like and swept away on whims. They are in literal effect the other half of each other.So what should happen if that theoretical other half should cease to exist? This is what the story leads to, and in the last 20 pages or so examines the aftermath of this, and the gradual acceptance of peace. I did, under no uncertain terms, very much enjoy reading this journey of the siblings, and following through their joys and tribulations, the story is so well written,the narrative I found exceptional, especially for a first novel, and I would most definitely recommend it. Again my only nark was that it seemed to taper off to an oddity, but an oddity that was in keeping with the story.The only advice I would have to anyone reading this book is not to expect a huge revelation or climax - the intrigue that builds up is never fully satisfied, much like Jonathon after he feels he has failed a very co-dependent Theo.All in all, very good and I would happily look out for more from this author....more